15 Adorable Teddy Bear Dog Breeds That Raise the Cuteness Bar
Even when full grown, they're still like a little teacup of mushy love.
Teddy bear dogs have recently gained widespread popularity, which is no surprise given that they’re known for an array of heartwarming traits such as being friendly, loyal, and big fans of cuddling. A relatively new dog category that was first recognized in the early 2000s, several of these pups were initially bred to serve as therapy animals for handicapped children, according to The Nest.
What is a teddy bear dog?
As their name suggests, teddy bear dogs are incredibly cute and cuddly animals. However, they aren't an actual type of breed. These pets get their moniker from having the same features — soft coats, button noses, and loving eyes — as the beloved toy.
Do teddy bear dogs stay small?
You'll mainly find small dog breeds categorized as teddy bear dogs, which means they tend to stay that way. Depending on the breed, they will likely be around 12 inches in height and up to 15 pounds. However, a few are on the larger side, such as the Chow Chows, which can grow to be up to 75 pounds.
What to know about adopting a teddy bear dog:
When considering which small teddy bear dog to choose as your adorable new pet, there are plenty of factors to keep in mind since each and every breed that's consider a "teddy bear dog" is different. You’ll want to take into account the level of maintenance and training they require, how active they are, whether they can be left alone, and, if you have little ones, how good they are with kids.
Since there are so many options to choose from, we’ve gathered the top teddy bear dog breeds that are sure to make a precious addition to your home.
Sam Lawyer is a lifestyle writer and television producer based in New York City. She’s been contributing to Woman’s Day for nearly five years, and covers a variety of topics from gifting, to health, and entertainment. Her work has additionally been featured in Cosmopolitan, Country Living, and Good Housekeeping. When she’s not writing or producing, you can find her binging her favorite Bravo shows or getting walked by her French Bulldog.
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